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" BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS." 



Compiled by 

ALICE BRAGG STURDY 

From the Writings of 

RHODA ANGELINE^BENTON 



LOS ANGELES, CAL. 

PUBLISHED BY THE MEDIUM 

1899 



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cfffioda Jl tide fine Sen fan. 



Rhoda Angeline Benton, the daughter of Noah 
Lester Benton and Prissilla Hall Benton, was born 
in Cornwall, Addison county, Vermont, November 
27, 1819. 

The oldest of eight children, she was even as a 
\ery little girl noted for her amiable and happy dis- 
position, her love of flowers and animals and in- 
deed of all nature. When tired in mind or body, she 
would seek some quiet spot, remote from all but 
God and in .silence find strength and rest. She 
could adapt herself to her surroundings, becoming 
interested in a little child's amusements and enter- 
taining it as well as if she were its own age, or be- 
come equally interested in an aged person discover- 
ing what entertained and interested h:m most. She- 
had the faculty of makiDg all whom she met, no ma:- 
ter how illiterate, feel perfectly at ease in her pres- 
ence. The poorest and most unattractive persons 
were even sought by her as she seemed to love to 
cheer their lives by her congenial presence. She at- 
tended the district school of Cornwall, Vermont, un- 
til about twelve years of age, when she entered a 
Seminary at Vergennes. Here she became acquaint- 
ed with her dear friend, Mary Roberts, to whom one 
of her poems is addressed, .alter about a year spent 
in Vergennes she entered Middleberry Female Col- 
lege, where she remained about two years. She was 
far advanced in knowledge and her mind was ma- 
tured beyond her years, as can be seen by her writ- 
ings as early as fourteen. 

At the age of sixteen she commenced teaching 
school in a little village a few miles from her home. 
It was while here she wrote "On being Engaged in 
Teaching." 

On account of her mother's poor health her fam- 
ily, including herself, moved to Nashville, 111., but 
so great was her attachment to certain friends in her 



'BE A UTIFUL THO UGHTS. ' ' 



Eastern home that it was a very great sorrow to 
leave them. 

After moving West she taught school in a Sem- 
inary at Belleville, 111., for one year and was engaged 
to teach the following year had she lived. During the 
vacation one of her sisters became very ill and while 
the family were daily expecting her death her fath- 
er, very suddenly after a few hours' illness, died. 
She had always been especially devoted to her fath- 
er, and being a person of such deep affection, it is 
supposed that her grief occasioned by his death was 
the cause of her own, as she only lived one week af- 
ter her father died. The morning of her death, while 
the family were at breakfast, she came to the bed- 
side of her sick sister, Ruby Ann, whom she found 
weeping over their recent loss. After comforting her 
she arose, saying: "Be a good girl, you will get well 
first," walked across the room and laid down. The 
doctor entered at. this moment, but instead of stop- 
ping at the bedside of the s'.ck girl whom he had 
called to see, hastened across the room and spoke 
to Angeline. She answered him, saying: "I am bet- 
ter," and died before the doctor could call any of 
the family. 

She was engaged to be married to a Mr. Will- 
iam Rider, a b nker of Belleville, who never out- 
grew the sadness caused by her death. He erected 
a handsome tombstone in memory of her near her 
home in Nashville, 111. 

Her writings have been treasured by my mother 
and' as I have often loved to read them and been 
highly elevated in thought while doing so, I felt 
that they were too beautiful to be kept hidden away 
any longer. I hope all who read her "Beautiful 
Thoughts" will feel that they have been lifted upon 
a higher plane of thought and will derive much good 
from them. ALICE BRAGG STURDY. 



CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

Rhoda Angeline Benton .. 2-3 

Twilight 5 

Contentment. 6 

The Blank Leaf 6 

Dialogue Between A Lady And The Wind 7-8 

The Heart's Secret Grief. 8 

Comparative View Of The Country And City 9 

There Is No Hindrance To The Ambitious Scholar 10 

American Literature. 11-12 

Lines To The Mother Of Little William 13-14 

To A Friend Of The Mother Of William 14-15 

The Widow's Charge At Her Daughters Bridal. . . 15 

Ode To The Evening Stars 16 

Help ' 16 

Does Ambition Excite People To Greater Ex- 
ertion Than Necessity 17-18 

The Bride 18 

Knowledge 19-20 

Written In The Album Of A Friend ...... 20 

On Seeing An Aged Beggar In The Street . . 21 
Lines Occassioned By Being Absent From Home 

Engaged In Teaching 22-23 

Life ... 23 

A Paraphrase On The Last Five Verses Of The 

Tenth Chapter Of St. Luke 24 

Parting Lines To My Dear Friend Mary 25-26-27 

An Album eau Present 27-28 

Christ's Childhood 29-30 

Written In The Album Of A Friend.. 30 

Friendship 31 

The Three Requisites To A Just Imagination 31 

I Love Thee Dearest Mary 32-33 

Lines Written In The Album Of A Friend 33 
Lines Written On The Death Of A Cousin, Shel- 
don Parmerly 34 

Epithalamium 35 

Friendship 36 

OneStepMore 37-38 

Think Of Friends With Me And Friends Far 

Away 38 

Prayer 39 

To Mary ... 40 



4 'BE A UTIFUL THO UGHTS. 



\ TWILIGHT. 

Written at the agu of H yearj. 

Now, on the hills and mountain tops 
The Sun's last rays are streaming, 

While o'er the glen's embosomed rocks 
Her beams are faintly gleaming; 

All o'er the earth — with verdure spread, 
Enclosed by Heaven's blue ceiling, 

With gentle steps, and holy tread 
Is silent twlight stealing. 

Twilight — I hail once more thy power 
Once more the cup o'erflowing 
With sweetest musings for thy hour 
Of nature's own bestowing. 
Thy hour — the lovliest in time — 

When earth we c^ase from prizing 
And up to Heaven's all radiant clime 
Our holiest thoughts are rising. 

This stillest season — when the day 
Its weary arms is folding 
And trees and flowers with breezes play 
Their silent concourse holding, 
When Nature's pleased surveying eye 

In transports pure, is gazing 
Upon the blue but fading sky, 
Thy shadowy veil is hazing. 

What bosom e'er so base or mild 

With grief or vengeance fuming 
In thee, will not find soothings mild? 

With thee, hold sweet communing? 
But Oh, how blest the Christian soul 

From busy haunts retreating, 
That in thy hour finds highest joy 

With higher spirits meeting. 

Oh may I ever love, as now 

Thy charms to be admiring — 
And ever love my dusky friend 

With thee, to be retiring. 
Ye powers above — be witnesses now — 

While I am consecrating 
To sacred themes with firmest vow 

This hour of Heaven's best making. 
Cornwall, June 4, 1838. 



■ 'BE A UTIFUL THO UGH 7 S. ' 



CONTENTMENT. 



Written at the age of 14 years. 

Contentment: Who regards it as his own? 

Or who can say with conscience undisturbed 

It ever finds an unmolested 

Habitation in my heart? Who can tell 

Of it, as though through all the changes of 

This ever -varying life, it never were 

A stranger, and had ever been tenacious 

Of a seat within his bosom? Not he 

Whose learning traverses creations wide 

And ample field of intellectual 

Stores; not he whose wealth is in his earthly 

Goods and whose possessions glitter in the 

Brightest gold; Nor he who loves the greeting 

Soul-alluring pleasures of a foolish 

World, and has at his command all pleasure 

That the heart can wish or fancy can 

Imagine. But he whose better knowledge 

Is experience, whose wealth is virtue, 

And whose pleasure, love of him who loves' the 

Humble heart, and watches with paternal 

Kindness o'er the human race. 



THE BLANK LEAF. 



Fair page, the eye that looks on thee 
Ere long shall slumber in the dust, 

And wake no more until it rise; 
The resurrection of the just 
May he to whom that eye belong 

Join their assembly and their song; 

Whose is that eye? Just now 'twas mine, 

But reader, when thou lookest, 'tis thine. 

Forget me not when far away, 

As o'er the distant world you stray; 

Remember one forever true, 

To truth, to friendship and to you, 

And should you in your life of bliss, 

E'er find a heart more true than this, 

Whate'er may be your future lot, 

Forget me not, forget me not. 

ANGELINE. 



• ' BE A UTIFUL 7 "HO UGHTS. 



DIALOGUE BETWEEN A LADY AND THE WIND. 



Written at the :i<?e ot'14 years. 



Lady. 



Stop whistling stranger — why such haste, 

Stop, ere you shortly die, 
Your breath will faint, your voice will cease, 
Your wings will droop with heaviness, 

If you thus swiftly fly. 

Wind. 

Ah lady; think not so, indeed, 

Your weakness you expose, 
My arm is stout, my nerve is strong, 
T oft lay low the forest throng, 

Nor fear I human foes. 

Lady. 

Well you may thus my words deride, 

And call me simple too; 
Though you can mighty things perform, 
Frighten all nature in a storm, 
Of peaceful seas, huge mountains form, 

Man greater things can do. 

Wind. 

Ah lady; you mistake I think. 

Can man do more than these? 
I ike me, can man entirely free, 
Fly swiftly o'er the mighty sea? 
When scorched beneath the sultry line 
Will he retire to polar's clime, 

Or elsewhere as he please? 

Lady. 

Man's is a nobler, higher sphere, 
And yet he prides in art, 
He prides him in the lofty tower, 
The pyramid, the towering spire, 
This city and these well tilled farms 
Bespeak his wisdom; but the charms 
Of his bright genius, soaring high. 
Now in the earth, now in the sky, 
Exploring with a searching air, 
Speak louder of his gifts, and share 
The pride of his proud heart. 



' ' BE A UTIFUL THO UGHTS. ' ' 



Wind. 

Speak on, your words surprise my ear, 
I'll listen with delight, to hear 
Of things to me so new. 

Lady. 

Well then, this noble sphere is mind, 

A soul immortal, pure, 

The image of its God it bears, 

With Him, ne'er dies, but ever lives, 

When you and all things earthly cease, 

When mountains, rocks and skies, and seas, 

Shall disappear, still lives this soul; 

Ranging slill free, without control, 

It then more swift than you, will scan 

The universe and view its plan, 

A_nd reign with God secure. 



THE HEART'S SECRET GRIEF. 

Not every face that, wears a smile 

Amid the gayer scenes of life, 
Nor every eye that brightly beams 

Is always free from inward strife. 
Oft many a gay and smiling air, 

Dissemble o'er the sorrowing heart, 
The brow be smooth, no wrinkle there, 

Ye* oft the tears unbidden start! 

Beneath vain pleasure's mocking cloak, 

We strive to hide our inward grief; 
Those better feelings fain would choke, 

And look to this world for relief. 
'Tis only when the day doth vanish, 

When night o'er earth her mantle throws, 
Reflection then we cannot banish, 

The tear unchecked then freely flows. 

The face may seem devoid of care. 
The placid brow, eyes sparkling bright, 

Speak peace within, and yet 'tis there 
Affliction spreads its withering blight; 

While from this world we would conceal 
Our sufferings, nor our woes impart, 
A bursting sigh shall oft reveal 
The anguish of a breaking heart. 

— Selected. 



"BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS. 



COMPARTIVE VIEW OF THE COUNTRY AND 

CITY. 



Written at the- age o( i'8 years. 

Where, only but in view of majestic nature, can- 
ine soul enjoy the unbounded, and unrestrained pas- 
sions of wonder and curiosity? What can elevate and 
cheer the heart, or animate the soul of man with more 
lively emotions than a wild and delightful view of 
tic works of his Creator? There is something of such 
exquisite beauty and grandeur in the romantic scen- 
ery of the country, that the inhabitants of thronged 
cities cannot coujprehend. Everything seems to have 
a pleasing connection with the past. Every hill, every 
spot, and almost every bush suggests something wor- 
thy of recollection. Man is united with man, age with 
age, in the most sympathetic ties of friendship, and 
under the strongest bonds of unity; but absolute per- 
fection is in no place exhibited. Each alike, the cuy 
and the country, has its excellencies and defects, and 
different prospects operate differently upon different 
minds. But where in general do we find content- 
ment? In the busy throng of the tumultuous city? 
Beneath the spacious walls of human architecture? 
No; it dwells in the humble modest cot of the forest. 
There happiness, heightened in every prospect, and 
heartfelt joy is complete. And oft at even, the con- 
tented swain goes forth, to taste the balmy sweetness 
of the evening breeze, and view the ethereal vault. 
His eye is delighted with the spacious canopy of 
heaven and he beholds with sacred awe the vast un- 
limited expanse that spreads before his view. He 
seats him on the shady bank of some rippling stream, 
and there in solitude, and with a heart o'ercharged 
with gratitude, meditates upon the power, wisdom 
and benevolence of that Being, who weigheth the 
mountains in scales, and taketh up the isles as a very 
little thing. 



"Every soul as it is most pure 
And hath in it the more of heavenly light,, 

So it the fairer body doth procure 
To habit in, and it, more fairly delight, 
With cheerful grace and amiable sight. 

For of the soul the body form doth take; 

For soul is form and doth the body make." 



io "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 



THERE IS NO HINDRANCE TO THE AMBITIOUS 
SCHOLAR. 



Written at the age of 15 years 

What will quell the longings of a scientific mind, 
or satisfy the desires of that heart whose standard of 
attainments is not limited to the low acquirements of 
ordinary genius, but whose loftier anticipations have 
set no bounds to scientific improvement. Whatsoever 
beclouds or brightens the prospects of an ambitious 
scholar, he is still active and constantly extracting 
from every object the sustenance of an ambitious and 
enquiring mind. Nature affords a constant feast for 
his soul. In the calm and delightful morning, he per- 
haps walks along the pathway that leads to his favor- 
ite bower, and directs his meditations to the instabil- 
ity of earthly things, and concentrates all his hopes 
in the bright mansion of his Heavenly Father. In 
the evening, he gazes at the sparkling canopy that 
o'erspreads terrestrial objects and casts a shadowy 
veil upon his native dwelling. Indolence finds no 
refuge in his bosom and things of minor consequence 
than moral and mental improvement, are regarded as 
frivolous and vain. We sometimes hear an ignorant 
youth plead his poverty as an apology for an unculti- 
vated mind, while if disposed a person in low circum- 
stances will not only acquire high intellectual attain- 
ments, but will even rise above those whom fortune 
has placed among the wealthy and proud. And so 
far from saying that immense wealth is a necessary 
appendage to the ambitious scholar, it is often an in- 
cumbrance, and too often creates an utter aversion to 
all literary pursuits. In pursuing the annals of fame, 
where do we look for it. Among the affluent and 
haughty, or among the meek and indigent? Among 
the proud and vain, or among the wise and humble? 
The only source of knowledge is from God, the author 
and giver of all good things, and to Him who is good 
in His sight, He will give wisdom, knowledge and joy. 



"BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS." n 



AMERICAN LITERATURE. 



Written at the age of 15 years. 

Although wealth and power possess a vast influ- 
ence in promoting the worthy honor and esteem of a 
country, yet literature, is indispensable with regard to 
the prosperity and happiness of any nation whatever. 
Our country may possess the wealth of the Indies, 
and sway the scepter of supreme power, but still with 
all this, without literature it is nothing. Literature is 
the basis of renown, and without it no country is 
exalted to that rank, honor and station of importance 
as when under the direct influence of its amazing 
power. And when under the dispensation of Chris- 
tian faith and integrity, and honored with faithful- 
ness and energy of zeal, it flourishes as the thrifty 
plant, nourished and revived through the influence of 
the renovating beams of the Sun. It is not wealth, 
power or fame which constitutes the glory of a eoun- 
try,but the individual prosperity, happiness, virtue and 
freedom of its inhabitants; and this, then, weshouldbe 
the most faithful in cherishing and the most active 
in promoting. Our scientific and literary produc- 
tions are already grown to importance and lap- 
idly flourishing to expel the gloom and fallacious 
power of arbitrary superstition; to open an extensive 
Held for the reception of "all that is lofty, noble and 
pure, and to ban : sh from the human heart all the re- 
vengeful and selfish passions that infest it, by pre- 
senting to the imagination the more refined and ani- 
mating pleasures of science. We even now see ambi- 
tion, intent upon the accomplishment of this im- 
portant object, industry ready to embrace it, 
and honor eager to promote it. And imde^ 
these favorable auspices, who can doubt that America, 
though even now deserving distinguished merit, may 
ere long be looked upon as the seat of learning, as 
placed upon the throne of science and weaving the 
unfading crown of literature. Butstill many of the sons 
of America, have even now rendered their names im- 
mortal, and though the bonds of union be dissolved. 
and anarchy and confusion reign, they will never be 
effaced from the literary heart. I can see nothing at 
present to oppose the progress of science in our coun- 
try, at least nothing but what American perseverance 
will overcome; and I would cling with philanthropic 
emotions to the pleasures derived from habits of re- 
tirement and reflection. Let us for a moment con- 



12 "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 



sider the foundation of the pleasures derived from 
this source. The individual who thus se- 
cludes himself from society, for the purpose 
of improvement, has leisure to review the 
mult'plied follies of his life and compare his 
conduct with those whom he would select as persons 
of virtue and morality. He traces the various opera- 
tions of his mind .and carefully examines those prin- 
ciples which influence it, and the more important qual- 
ities and acquirements which constitute a well* regu- 
lated and well governed mind. Reflection not only 
affords pleasure but expands the intellect, and widens 
the capacity for knowledge. The mind that thirsts 
for knowledge loves retirement; it loves to steal from 
the busy crowd and seek happiness amid its own silent 
pursuits, and happy is that person whose leisure 
hours are spent in this delightful employment. There 
is no menral faculty that exerts a more powerful in- 
fluence over the conduct and morals of mankind than 
meditation; and, indeed, these cannot be regulated in 
the least with out it. Extensive reading conversation or 
lectures, and, indeed, instruction from enthusiastic 
delight, to the last and faintest hope that remained, 
and embrace with ardor the best methods and indus- 
triously apply them to its advancement. If we look 
to our own interests and to the interests of our coun- 
trymen and friends, we cannot avoid that spirit that 
prompts us to the acquirement of knowledge," and if 
this spirit is cherished and gratified we shall have 
made proper use of the talentsi committed to us. But 
I would speak the praises of American literature, for 
already I see the American scholar rising in glory 
and honor in the world, and grasping all in his power. 
I see his happiness, his uninterrupted diligence, and 
his inestimable prize. I see the hope that animates 
his heart, and in ecstacy exclaim, "what a motive to 
diligence." 



"I slept and dreamed that life was beauty; 
I woke and found that life was duty. 
Was then my dream a shadowy lie? 
Toil on, sad heart, courageously; . 
And thou shalt find thy dream to be 
A noon day light and truth to thee." 



"True genuine modesty is to be 
Developed by the indwelling of Christianity.' 



BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' /j 



LINES TO THE MOTHER OF LITTLE WILLIAM. 
(Who Was Scalded to Death). 

Written at the age of 15 year,-. 

Thou gazest on that cherub brow, 

Cold, motionless and still; 
No sportive smile is on it now, 

No joy its eyes to fill.. 

Its little limbs are stiff and cold, 

Its throbbing heart has ceased; 
Did death unclasp thy fondest hold, 

When he its soul released? 

Ah, mother, wherefore weepest thou? 
Why steals the big tear down thy cheek? 
What means the sadness of thy brow? 
Hast thou no Comforter to seek? 

Wouldst thou bring back his happy soul 

From that bright realm above? 
Erase his name from that pure roll, 

And tear him from a Father's love? 

And wouldst thou place him here below, 

To meet the world's cold smile — 
Perhaps no ray of hope to know, 

When all is dark and wild? 

Ah, mother, 'twas a Father's hand, 

He saw and knew it best, 
And took him to His "Better Land," 

To his eternal rest. 

Then, mother, dry thine every tear; 

For thou this truth shouldst know 
God, thy Redeemer's ever near 

And He inflicts the blow. 

He took away thy little one, 

By Him its soul was given; 
Then mourn not, for thy darling son, 

For he's with God in Heaven. 

The gentle William weeps no more; 
His varied sufferings all are o'er. 
No inward struggles cloud his brow 
With marks of untold suffering.now. 



i 4 "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 



A little time on earth he spent, 
Till God for him his angels sent, 
And then on time he closed his eyes 
To wake in glory in the skies. 

Just like a bud of sunny spring, 
That spite of kindly fostering 
Is withered in its early bloom; 
He sank in beauty to the tomb. 

He longed to take millenial rest; 
God more than granted his request, 
And Satan ne'er shall lead astray 
His footsteps from God's holy way. 

He shines now brighter than a star 
In that sweet place where angels are, 
And there no sin or care can come, 
'Tis better than a mother's home. 

Ah! let his parents weep no more; 
Their gentle boy has gone before, 
And when they're laid beneath the sod, 
He'll wait to welcome them to God. 



TO A FRIEND OF THE MOTHER OF WILLIAM. 



I ever loved the heart that loves 
A fond and tender mother; 
That grief and care from her resumes, 
That all her ills would smother. 

I love it most to see it prove, 
And weep with that fond mother, 

When she is called to test that love 
That's equalled by no other. 

When death draws out with ruthless hand 
An arrow from his quiver, 
And pointing to her infant band, 
Bestows one to the giver. 

Then when biggest tears and saddest grief, 

Would fain her bosom sever, 
And soothing friends would give relief, 

But no relief can give her. 



* * BE A UTIFUL THO UGH TS. ' ' 



'S 



Oh, then! I love the heart that points 

Her soul to God, her Father, 
Directs to that bright hour, her thoughts, 

When His shall meet together. 

Then lovely is the eye that's glazed 
With tears for that fond weeper, 
And ever shall the heart be praised 
That loves from grief to keep her. 
Cornwall, April 3, 1838. 



THE WIDOW'S CHARGE, AT HER DAUGHTER'S 
BRIDAL. 



-o- 



ueal gently thou, whose hand has won 

The young bride from its nest away, 
Where, careless, 'neath the vernal sun, 

She gaily caroled day by day; 
The naunt is lone, the heart must grieve, 

From whence her timid wing doth soar, 
They pensive list, at hush of eve, 

Yet hear her gushing song, no more. 

Deal gently with her; thou art dear 

Beyond what vestal lips have told, 
And like a lamb, from mountain clear 

She turns confiding to thy fold. 
She 'round thy sweet domestic bower, 

The wreathes of changeless love shall twine, 
Watch for thy step at vesper hour, 

And blend her holiest prayer with thine. 

Deal gently thou, when far away, 

'Mid stranger scenes her foot shall rove, 
Nor let thy tender cares decay. 

The soul of woman lives in love; 
And shouldst thou, wondering mark a tear 

Unconscious from her eyelid break, 
Be faithful — and soothe the fear 

That man's strong heart can ne'er partake. 

A mother yields her gem to thee, 

On thy true breast to sparkle rare; 
She places 'neath thy household tree 

The idol of her fondest care; 
And by thy trust, to be forgiven, 

When judgment wakes in terror wild, 
By all thy treasured hopes of heaven, 

Deal gently with the widow's child. 



1 6 "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS" 



ODE TO THE EVENING STARS. 



Written at the age of 16 years. 

Hail, thou bright gleaming evening star; 

Thou little sparkling spot afar, 

Thou gem, hung out on night's pale shroud 

Far, far above the highest cloud — 
No brilliant diamond shining brght 
Can charm the eye with such delight. 

, We gaze on the unnumbered throng 
While wandering carelessly along, 
But when our eyes alight on thee 
We sigh, and wish away to flee. 
Away to ramble in the skies 
Till thy fair image meets our eyes. 

We mark thy early morning rays, 
They tell of Sol's returning blaze, 
We view thy cheerful hesper light 
Succeeding her descending flight, 
And oh, our souls would rise and fly 
To thy bright home, the fair blue sky. 



"HELP." 



"My hands have often been weary hands. 

Too tired to do their daily task, 
And just to fold them forevermore 

Has seemed the boon that was best to ask. 

My feet have often been weary feet, 

Too tired to walk another day; 
And I've thought, to sit and cdlmly wait 

Is better far than the onward way. 

My eyes with tears have been so dim, 
That I have said I cannot mark 

The work I do, or the way I take, 
For everywhere it is dark — so dark. 

But, oh! Thank God! There never has come 
That hour that makes the bravest quail, 

No matter how weary my hands and feet. 
God never has suffered my heart to fail. 

So the folded hands take up their work, 
And the weary feet pursue their way, 

And all is clear when the good heart cries, 
Be brave! Tomorrow's another day." 



BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 17 



DOES AMBITION EXCITE PEOPLE TO GREATRK 
EXERTION THAN NECESSITY? 



Wtitteu at the age of 16 years. 

(A Debate.) 
It must be allowed that according to philosophi- 
cal principles the terms employed in a debate, should 
be clearly and distinctly defined before proceeding to 
the discussion of the question. And what I mean by 
Ambition is a desire of power, excellence or persever- 
ance. By Necessity, that which compels a person to 
exertions which will promote personal utterances. 
In the first place, necessity does not act in so high 
ranges or attempt so difficult and hazardous efforts 
as ambition. Has it even like ambition crossed the 
Alps of Switzerland, forced itself through eastern 
deserts, ascended the rugged mountains of the north, 
or wandered over the cheerless unfrequented seas of 
the south? Has it like ambition contended with cham- 
pions or fought with haughty, arrogant kings? Has 
it like ambition subdued nations, overthrown king- 
doms and laid cities in ashes on provinces and em- 
pires, in the world? Hais it explored the subterranean 
regions of the earth, or the infinite number of worlds 
that surround it? No, not even inspected one among 
the variety of objects upon its surface. The range of 
necessity is merely what we see exhibited in common 
life, those things that promote temporary pleasure or 
perosnal enjoyment, the labor requisite in procuring 
the necessaries, the bodily exertions of those whose 
daily support depends upon them. Necessity may 
perhaps, elevate some one by chance, to a high sta- 
tion, of wealth or honor, but what avails an individ- 
ual case, when thousands would be required to confute 
the foregoing assertion. Necessity is not engaged 
in the pursuit of so many important and useful ob- 
jects as ambition. It has not been the result of »o 
many successful achievements in war. It has not pro 
duced such rapid advances of arts and manufac- 
tures as ambition, though, perhaps, both 
might have originated in necessity. And we are 
well aware that they may arise to such a point that 
efforts resulting from necessity to maintain them will 
be superceded by those of ambition. Ambition has 
produced greater mental exertions than necessity. 
What but ambition has elevated the standard of edu- 
cation in this and other countries? What has caused 



1 8 "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS: 



our cities to become seats of learning and literature 
to nourish in our towns? What but this has given 
courage to the orator and pride to the poec; that has 
excited our public speakers to test those exertions 
requisite for maintaining the cause in which they are 
'engaged? Let us for a moment consider how the great 
mass of created intelligent beings would conduct 
themselves, were they not incited by any other than 
necessitous motives. I know that what I do from am- 
bition, is attended with greater exertions than that 
from necessity, and as I individually attest this, I 
wish to know if it is not the same with you all? 

Cornwall Debating Society, 1836. 



THE BRIDE. 



Oh, take her and be faithful still, 

And may the bridal vow 
Be sacred held in after years, 

And warmly breathed as now. 
Remember 'tis no common tie 

That binds her youthful heart, 
'Tis one that only Truth should weave, 

And only Death can part. 

The joy of childhood's happy hour, 

The home of riper years, 
The treasured scenes of early youth, 

In sunshine and in tears; 
The fairest hopes her bosom knew, 

When her young heart was free, 
Al these and more she now resigns, 

To brave the world with thee. 

Her lot in life is fixed with thine, 

Its good and ill to share, 
And well I know 'twill be her pride, 

To soothe each sorrow there. 
Then take her, and may fleeting time 

Mark only joy's increase, 
And may your days glide swiftly on 

In happiness and peace. 

— Selected. 



"BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' t 9 



KNOWLEDGE. 



Written at the age of 17 year . 

Come taste of Knowledge, heavenly prize, 
To light us to the distant skies, 
Come and enjoy her, pure and bright, 
In evening, by our cheerful light. 
Come share with us a mental feast, 
Of all feasts, not indeed, the least. 
We'll circle 'round the table spread, 
Not with fresh viands or with bread. 
A richer load it ssure shall bear, 
Of books and authors, choose with care, 
These we will fondly ponder o'er, 
These shall attest our love of lore! 
Oh Knowledge — source of pure delight, 
To Thee my spirit bends its flight. 

Come, too, at early morning light, 
Come, then, and woo her, pure and bright. 
Ere Sol's pure orient beams arise, 
To clear the darkness from our eyes. 
Ere busy day's confusing hum 
With all its busy care has come 
While yet the mind is calm and clear, 
And nothing's nigh to interfere. 
Come, then, enjoy a mental feast, 
Of all feasts, not indeed the least — 
Our due attention shall declare 
Our pure regard for truth and lore. 
Oh Knowledge, source of pure delight. 
To Thee my spirit bends its flight. 

Come mingle in the school house train, 
Mark their endeavors, truth to gain, 
Witness their application close, 
To tasks their teachers hard propose. 
See with what eagerness they strive, 
Their fellow class-mates to out-thrive, 
And then say who would such disdain. 
Such joys, what mortals wou'd not claim. 
Oh, here the tree of knowledge grows. 
Here Liberty's fair sons arose, 
And o'er these hanowed spots of love, 
Shall wave fresh laurels evermore. 
Oh Knowledge, source of pure delight, 
To Thee my spirit bends its flight. 



2o "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:" 



Oh happy be the souls that love 
To wander in some shady grove, 
To seek some calm, some blessed retreat, 
So pure, 'twere seeming heaven complete. 
And there some favorite volume choose, 
Some much-loved author there peruse, 
And there perhaps some friend prefer 
With whom upon them to confer. 
Ah, who so blessed below the skies, 
Such heaven-born joys — who would not prize. 
Oh Knowledge, source of pure delight, 
To Thee my spirit bends its flight. 



WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF A FRIEND. 
Written at the age of 18 years. 

(Vergenes, May 24, 1838.) 
I do not think to work a name 
Or praises for poetic fame 

In these dull lines. 
I only wish to fan a flame 
And make increasing warmth my aim 

In these dull lines, 

A kind memento it may serve 

Of love from which I ne'er shall swerve 

In these dull lines. 
But for your worth — your coy reserve 
You get not half what you deserve 

In these dull lines. 

I might attempt your heart to show 
In all its beauty, warmth and glow 

In these dull lines. 
But, oh; I could not half bestow 
Or paint thy bosom's faintest glow 

In these dull lines. 

But Mary when I'm far away, 
Ad, oh! I feel the whole I say, 

In these dull lines. 
Remember her, one who e'er will pray 
For sunshine on her every day, 
Who now receives this humble lay 

In these dull lines. 



''BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 2t 



ON SEEING AN AGED BEGGAR IN THE STREET, 



Written at the age of 17 years. 

Oh hasten poor beggar man, weary and worn, 

Thy locks are quite gray, arid thy beard is not shorn. 

Thy feet are quite naked ,thy head is quite bare, 

Oh hasten to warm thee, and food we'll prepare. 

Oh what has thy lot been and what thy hard fate, 
That thou, thus so aged, art wandering so late, 
Oh hast thou not better reward for thy toil, 
Than the shelterless sky and the hard beaten soil? 

Oh, hast thou no sister, no friend or no wife, 
To cheer thee in trouble, assuage thy hard life? 
Or art thou all lonely, all sad and all meek, 
With no earthly friend save poor Trip at thy feet? 

Oh, what are thy prospects, but sorrow and gloom, 
Or hast thou a prospect beyond the dark tomb? 
Does Hope's cheering ray ever gleam o'er thy mind, 
And hast thou a refuge in God ever kind? 

Me thinks, poor old beggar, I hear you now say 
How can "I your kindness and pity repay? 
My purse is quite empty, but I'll never repine 
I've a heart that beats quickly and kindly as thine. 

When young, I was active and busy and gay, 

And hope beamed upon me her bright, cheering ray. 

But fate had designed me a sailor to rove, 

And thus on the foaming seas, since I have strove. 

Across the wide Ocean I have a dear wife, 
And three smiling children — if God spare their life, 
But oh, cruel wild winds have driven me here, 
To wail out my poor life in sorrow and fear. 

Thus, thus has my lot been, and thus my hard fate, 
But I trust I've a mansion beyond the dark state, 
When days of deep darkness and nights of sad wail 
Shall never this poor aching body assail." 



"Every action in life touches on some 
Chord that will vibrate in Eternity.** 



32 « BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 



LINES OCCASIONED BY BEING ABSENT FROM 
HOME ENGAGED IN TEACHING. 



Written at the age of 17 years. 

(Monday Morning, June 27, 1837.) . 
Whose is a happier sphere than mine? Or 
Who so blessed as I am, when fair aurora 
Decks the summer morn with every charm 
And wakes the winged musiciaas from their 
Restive sleep to fill the world with melody 
Exceeding far the mimicry of art 
And calls forth Zephyrus from her Western 
Home, to fan the morn with her reviving breath 
And wake all things to life and joy; 
Who then so happy as myself, say I 
To haste away with lithesome heart 
To yon low puny cot, to meet perhaps, some 
Twenty children of a country clan, of 
Neat attire, and rude appearance; modest 
Though, and gentle, kind, happy and contented, 
Ambitious each, the others to excel 
In their respective tasks; and proud to think 
Of knowing more and more each day. These — these 
The sunny day enjoy, entrusted to 
My care. And I, the while remuneration 
Share, to see their growing minds, with knowledge 
Frought. Such cots as these, so often met with 
On the country plain, or in the thicket glen, 
Or on the south hill side, or on the fair 
And modest villa green, bespeak a nation wise 
Wise, and fond of lore; and fills the heart 
Of him, on whom fair science deigns to cast 
Her lucid beams, with elevated joy. 

Ah, yes; 'twas in a place like this, that first 

A Newton's mind expanded, first a White's 

Or Franklin's. Or aught of whom the world may 

Boast, as votaries of exalted science. 

Here friendship first unites young hearts, with 

Ever duriDg ties; and each succeeding 

Year adds strength, till manhood comes, and then by 

Death old age dissolves the earthly union 

For bonds now ind'ssolubly strong in 

Realms of bliss above. Whose lot than mine more 

Joyous and refined, than tender minds, to 

Bend for future good and give to early thought 

A sense of right and wrong, and eagerly 



•• BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 23 



Observe the first faint glimmerings of latent 

Powers, unfolding into action. 

Ah, thus will I repay the anxious care 

Of those who thus for me have toiled, and on 

My younger mind — bestowed such pains as well 

Deserves my utmost thanks; and ever will 

T think oi them with kindest love. 

Oh my best wishes too, and best regard 

Shall rest on those dear spots, where first the 

Mind, rude and unpolished, (like the marble 

In the quarried mine, ere the skilled sculptor 

Puts its beauties on) begins to dazzle 

Forth its faculties inherent. These seats 

Of learning are the firmest props a 

Nation holds, of honor, happiness, of 

Worth or wealth; and 10 sustain them I will 

Do my best. So haste Angela to your daily task. 



LIFE. 

Life, I know not what thou art, 

But know that thou and I must part, 

And when or how, or where we met 

I own, to me's a mystery yet. 

Life, we've been long together, 

Through pleasant and through cloudy weather. 

'Tis hard to part when friends are dear; 

Perhaps 'twill cost a sigh, a tear; 

Then steal away, give little warning, 

Choose thine own time, 
Say not good night,, but in some brighter clime 

Biu me good morning. 

— Selected. 



•'The kindest and happiest pair 
Will oft have reason to forbear, 
Find something every day they live 
To pity and perhaps forgive." 



"Strength for today is all we need, 
As there never will be a tomorrow; 

For tomorrow will prove but another today 
With its measure of joy and sorrow." 



24 "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 



PARAPHRASE ON THE LAST FIVE VERSES OF 
THE TENTH CHAPTER OF ST. LUKE. 

— — 0— 



Written at the age of 17 years 

(Addressed to My Sister Mary.) 
Jesus the holy Son of God 
And his disciples, lovely band, 
At Martha's house in Bethany 
Retire and entertainment find. 

While Martha served with busy care 
And hastened to prepare them food 
See Mary — Martha's sister dear 
At Jesus' feet, how meek, how good. 

With what sweet words from Jesus' lips, 
Was Mary's happy heart then cheered 
How blessed was her humble seat, 
What glorious counsels then she heard. 

But Jesus, Master, Martha said, 

Bia Mary some kind help afford; 

See how I labor, she instead 

Feasts well her soul with thy rich word. 

Martha, Martha, Jesus replied, 
Let not this world engage your heart; 
One thing is needful, much preferred 
And Mary hath this better part. 

While you are careful of this life 
Anxious its flattering smiles to share 
See Mary humble at my feet 
Sweet piety her only care. 

Now Mary may this Mary's choice 
Be your rich portion evermore; 
And may you at His feet rejoice 
Who cruel pangs for sinners bore. 



"Make a little fence around today, 

Fence it in with loving words and therein stay; 

Look not through the sheltering bars upon tomor- 
row, 

God will help thee bear what comes of joy or sor- 
row." 



'• BEA UTIFUL THOUGHTS. ' ' 



PARTING LINES TO MY DEAR FRIEND MARY. 



Written at the age of 18 years. >, 

All, why did Providence to me allow 
So lovely friends; or one so dear as thou — 
And why, Oh fate, has thou so soon decreed 
From friends, and home and all, my steps to lead? 

For I must soon another air inhale 

Far from Vermont, in Mississippi's vale 

Where, whether joy or sorrow shall attend 

No smiles of thine can their mlid influence blend. 

But oh, I never will forget that voice 
Whose utterance mild, I oft have made my choice 
When busier tongues with half less sweetness fraught 
Have plied in vain, in vain my smiles have sought. 

Nor e'er forget the glances of those eyes 
Whose tender radiance beams as from the skies 
Whose speaking fullness oft has fixed my gaze 
Till fancy fraught them with angelic rays. 

And oft shall fancy paint that roseate hue 

On those flushed cheeks — enchanting to my view, 

Sweet the remembrance — but ah, sweeter this 

That those flushed cheeks have felt my warmest kiss 

Wild is my fancy; Thou wild dream — away — 

Let reason exercise her nobler sway— 

And let to God my orisons ascend, 

For Heaven to guard thee — Heaven to ere befriend. 

And if to Heaven I raise my prayers again 
For blessings on thee, will those prayers be vain? 
Ah, Mary, no — for faith the while bespeaks 
That my fond prayer the richest favor seeks. 

Should now prophetic vision wrap my soul 
And the full page of future fate unroll, 
Would characters emblazoned there, portray 
A life of joy, a life of cloudless day? 

Or would cold sorrow like — 
(That ever dark concomitant of life) 
Tc press his heavy hand upon thy face 
And every line of love and joy erase? 



' ' BE A UTIFUL T//0 UGH VS. ' ' 



Ic matters not, if in that western vale 
A garb of grief and joy my heart empale 
No — it shall ever feel its purest flame 
At the mere mention of a cherished name. 

Oh! think you not, that my reverting eye 
Will often turn toward its native sky? 
And that my feet will often wish to roam 
About the fields encircling once — my home? 

And will not, too, those early school-day scenes 
Where joyous eyes have shot enraptured gleams 
Where heart with kindred heart in concert beat© 
And each kind smile a kinder answer meets. 

Will not these, too, be very near my heart 

Since thou, dear friend hast formed .so loved a part? 

And will not, too our ever mutual tears 

Embalm the memory of those bygone years? 

But thoughts like these chase countless thoughts 

along 
And fain would swell a weary endless song. 
But she to whom these measures are addressed 
She feels them all within her faithful breast. 

She never can forget those Sabbath hours 
When holiest themes engaged our holiest powers 
When from pure streams, our thirsty souls have 

quaffed 
The flowing sweetness of an Angel's draught. 

And when at church she sees my vacant, seat 
And she no more can hear my entering feet 
Oh, Heaven, for me, will know her anxious fears 
While each for other mingles prayers with tears. 

Thou knowest that from thy first love for me 
My kindest love has been bestowed on thee 
Thou knowest, how with unremitting care 
The purest friendship we have loved to share. 

That friendship grew from day to day 
Beneath the sunshine of love's warmest ray 
And Knowledge, Virtue, Love, have been the while 
The happy themes our minutes to beguile. 



^BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:* 27 



But oh, this heart by fate's relentless hand 
Must find a refuge in a stranger land 
Must transfer there, all fearless, fond and free 
The pure affections it has formed for thee. 

And deem not thou that there they will congeal 
Or that this heart will ever cease to feel 
Tt never can, within the pale of time, 
Or while thou livest, in whatever clime. 

But it is so; and must I say adieu? 

Adieu forever to a friend like you? 

Ye Powers above — with these last, accents, send 

A thousand blessings on thy worthy friend. 

Around her pathway shed Celestial light, 
And guard her spirit from misfortune's blight, 
Let every grace in sweet accord combine 
To mould her heart as pure and loved as thine. 

And, oh! protect her on Death's darksome hour 
When o'er her form shall steal its chilling power 
Then, let hope's bright beams upon her rise 
And plume her pinions for the upper skies. 

And may we meet in those bright realms above 
To tune our ceaseless songs of love, 
With this last wish— my bursting heart must tell 
To thee— a long— perhaps a last farewell. 

Her Friend Mary died in less than a year. 



AN ALBUMEAN PRESENT. 



Written at the as;e oflS years. 

(To My Friend Sarah.) 
The stars that nightly shine so pure, 
The Sun's bright beams by day obscure; 
Their milder less effulgent rays, 
Are lost amidst a brighter blaze; 
Yet not the less their forms are fair 
And not less brightly .shine they there. 
Thus here, the' names that meet thy eye, 
And dazzle bright on friendship's sky, 
Dispersing on thy raptured sight, 
The brightness of empyreal light; 



28 " BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS." 



■Jay dark eclipse my humble name, 

Amid their brighter, purer flame. 

Yet cot the less 'twould faithful be, 

And not less fondly cherished thee. 

My lowly strains in accent clear, 

Would fain fall gently on thy ear, 

And, mingled with love's warmest swell, 

Would kindly speak a last farewell. 

For fate with stern, unyielding hand, 

Points yonder to a stranger land, 

And time speeds on the darksome day, 

That thence must bear ycur friend away. 

But oh, wheree'er my footsteps roam 

3 still will love my early Home; 

I'll love tee playmates of my early youth 

(And tears forth gushing speak the truth,) 

O were the future unrevealed ' 

Its mystic volumes all unsealed, 

Would joy or grief be mine to ©hare 

Or peaceful rest or anxious care? 

Tis all as well — enough we know 

To learn that joy must mix with woe; 

That smiles oft prelude pain and tears, 

And brightest hopes oft end in fears; 

But why that Providence distrust 

Whose hand Divine is therefore just? 

If God beholds a sparrow's fall 

And sees around as Lord of all 

Shall I be faithless or shall I 

Unnoticed live, unnoticed die? 

An infinite unbounded stretch 

To notice me a worthless wretch. 

On life's tempestuous sea we ride, 

Where frightful storms our paths betide, 

W T here fearful waves around us roar, 

And thick impending tempests lower, 

But He still lives, whose high behest, 

Once calmed the troubled waves to rest, 

And when wild fears our bosoms fill, 

Will kindly answer, "Peace be Still." 

But, oh, farwell — may virtue shed 

Its brightest lustre o'er thy head, 

And may thou through life's darksome way, 

Prepare for realms of endless day; 

And may we in yon world above 

Sing ceaseless strains of endless love. 



" BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' zg 



CHRIST'S CHILDHOOD. 



Written at the ajee of 17 years. 

Of earth-born beings, who could ask 
More than was Mary's lot, the task 
(If such it may be called) to rear 
Witn tender care her offspring dear; 
For who before, such prize has won 
Who else can claim a spotless son? 

Where in the annals of the world 

Has priest or prophet ever told 

Of one so fair, so pure a child 

By nothing stained, by nought defiled? 

Or in what philosophic school 

Has e'er been trained by wisest rule 

A youth from every vice so free 

As was this soul in infancy. 

Think, how in every word and thought 

His parent's happiness he sought; 

A word in anger never spoke 

Ne'er raised his hand to deal a stroke 

Nor ever by a giddy heart, 

Was he allured to folly's part; 

But e'er maintained strict virtue's s'de 

And wept to see the foolish glide 

With fleeting steps, down death's dark tid<= 

What mixture pure of fond delight 
And love, the mother felt at night 
To trace his actions through the day 
And find to mourn no childish fray 
No raging passion quick to chide. 
No hasty, willful fault to hide 

But fondly mark hi© mind mature 
E'er age had made his manhood sure. 
Oh, how she loved to linger o'er 
The lovely traits his actions bore 
To see his gratitude and love 
His gentleness and kindness prove 
His wi/sdom from a world above. 

Alone a monument he stands 

Of spotless, pure unblemished hands, 

No sin-stained deed hotly he e'er wrought 



jo "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 



Nor no foul purpose ever sought. 

BiK why of Him attempt to show 

By words, what words can ne'er bestow. 

Among the names of human race 
Who pedigree from Adam trace, 
Not one in truth can disclaim sin; 
Ah, no; the monster reigns within; 
And sways his victim's yielding will 
His murderous office to fulfill. 

But this blest being, heavenly prize, 
This child, immaculate and wise, 
The Son of God, through David's line, 
The Son of Mary, heir divine, 
Hath never sinned; Ah, he alone, 
Ihe tempter had not power to own. 



WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF A FRIEND. 


Written at the age of 18 years. 

a thousand wishes I would wish you — 
A thousand blessings fain bestow, 

As many days of pleasure give you, 
Were I fitting thus to do. 

Would you ask a tender tribute — 
From a heart that loves you well, 

Would you ask one more expressive 
Than a tender sigh can tell? 

Would you ask a kind memento — 

On this consercrated page, 
If a tear drop chance to follow, 

Will it firmer love engage? 

Would you wish a fond expression — 
Of my often told regard, 
Would you wish me more to mention, 
Than my name — that simple word? 



"No life is pure in its purpose or strong in its 
strife, but all life is made purer and stronger there- 
by." 



"'BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 3' 



FRIENDSHIP. 



Written ar, the nge oflS years;. 

Friends but few on earth, and therefore dear." 

— Pollock. 

Are there on earth but few indeed 
Who friendship's leadings love to lead? 
Are there but few whose souls are near 
And "knit together," "therefore dear?" 

Are there but few who love to lave 
In friendship's pure and limpid wave, 
Around whose happy hearts entwine 
Affection's tendrils— plant divine. 

The sweets of friendship never cloy 
Do not these few these sweets enjoy? 
The sweets of friendship never fail, 
On these do not these few regale? 

Oh, we will join the happy "few," 
And friendship's lovely charms pursue, 
Yes ever 'round our hearts shall twine 
The tendrils of this plant Divine. 

And we will "knit" our souls so strong 
Not even Death, shall part us long, 
For Heavenward we will stretch our wings 
When its dark pall it o'er us flings. 

Then we will tune our highest lays, 
The God. who made us friends, to praise- 
Arid all the host shall catch the flame, 
And friendship, claim immortal name. 



'THE THREE REQUISITES TO A JUST IMAGINA- 
TION." 



"An eye that can see nature. 
A heart that can feel nature. 
A resolution that dare follow nature." 



J* "BEAUTIFUL THOUGH TS^ 



I LOVE THEE DEAREST MARY. 



Written at the age of 19 years. 

When gentle breezes swiftly play 
Their farewell to the parting day, 
When twilight's silence all profound 
And twilight's shadows linger 'round, 
When distant notes frem herded throng 
Blend with the streams their vesper song, 
Oh, then, if thou art sad and lone 
Hear thy Angelina's soothing tone, 
"I love thee, Dearest Mary." 

When morning birds and fragrant dew 
Another busy day renew; 
When morning skies serenely bright, 
Reflect on earth their purest light, 
When morning flowers to Sun and air 
Their little chalices unbare; 
And all is fresh and calm and still, 
And holiest, thoughts thy bosom fill, 
Oh, then, if thou art sad and lone, 
Hear thy Angeline's soothing tone, 
"I love thee, Dearest Mary." 

* When pleasure streams run clear and h'gh 
And bright its waves before thee lie, 
When summer joys around thee flow, 
And friends their kindest smiles bestow, 
When o'er thy charmed, thy raptured soul, 
The sweetest sounds in transports roll, 
Then blended, hear Angelia's song, 
Borne on the dewy gale along, 
"I love thee, Dearest Mary." 

But should misfortune's icy grasp 
In its cold arms my Mary clasp, 
And with its wild its chilling breath, 
Sweep o'er thy form its blasts of death, 
Should thou, dear friend, become a prey 
To sorrow's sad unfeeling sway, 
If paths of woe thy feet shall track, 
And deepest grief thy bosom rack, 
Then let thy burdened spirit rise 
Above the bright, the fair blue skies, 
To Him, who yields that peace alone, 
Thy grief-bound soul would call its own. 



u BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 33 



nemember, too, Angeline's soul, 
Though widest seas between us roll, 
Shall never from its purpose swerve, 
Faithful at Friendship's shrine to serve, 
Whatever paths thy feet pursue, 
Think of that .soul as ever true, 
Wherever it shall find a home, 
Let thither thy loved spirit roam, 
My kindest wishes on thee rest, 
Thy life with purest joys be blest, 
And while I say this last adieu,. 
Let me the darling theme renew, 
"I love thee, Dearest Mary." 
Cornwall, Vt., May 20, 1839. 



LINES WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF A FRIEND. 
Written at the age of IS years. 

Though those alone of present worth 
Deserve thy memories' faithful prayer, 

Yet while I have a home on earth 
May I not humbly claim thy care? 

And though dark fate exiles me far, 

Where strangers I shall only find, 
Vermont shall be my memory's star, 

And lure me back to friends behind. 

And though I may not think to share 
The ills and storms that life betide, 

One star as brilliant as the Sun 
Alone our wandering feet can guide. 

That star is virtue — bright it sheds 
Its lustre o'er life's darksome way, 
And beams upon bewildered heads 
The brightness of Celestial day. 

And one there lives, whose watchful eye 
Is ever on the lowly — wise, 
Who kindly hears the humble cry 
From his bright realm above the sky. 

Then we will trust in His kind care 

Ana in his powerful arm confide, 
Till we may bliss with angels share 

Far, far beyond time's troubled tide. 



34 "BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS^ 



LINES WRITTEN ON THE DEATH OF A COUSIN, 
SHELDON PARMERLY. 

Written at the age oflS years. 

This young man was studying for the ministry and 
died just as he was to begin his life work. 

Why; visions of the dead — why make me start? 
Oh, thoughts of one beloved — Why rend the heart? 
Oh, pangs of deep regret — why tear the soul? 
And floods of living grief — why o'er the bosom roll? 

'Tis all for Sheldon, his sad seeming fate, 
To die, when hopes were highest — heart elate, 
When joys were brightest, life itself most dear, 
When every tie seemed strengthened to retain him 
here. 

Could I portray the virtues/ of this youth 

In all the glowing lustre of their truth, 

I'd set them forth, a tribute to his praise 

And they should guide the world to imitate his ways. 

For all who knew him, loved his pious worth 
And ranked him with the happy "few on earth;" 
Even impious souls, his words of love embraced, 
And ne'er from one fond heart, will his memory be 
erased. 

Oh, what well-meaning love-fraught schemes of good 
What hopes of rendering the Redeemer's blood, 
The sanctifying draught, to sin-bound hearts, 
Are crushed and rent, to Sheldon, in death's recent 
darts. 

What disappointment seized him, when the thought 
Rushed o'er him, that he must so soon depart — 
So soon leave those who shared his early toys, 
And claimed with him, parental smiles; and child- 
hood's joys. 

But mark what joys light up his visage now, 
What looks of rapture kindle on his brow; 
His deathless spirit triumphs to unite, 
His Mother, Angels, Sainted Spirits — in delight. 

He thirsted here for goodness and for God, 
He now, me trust, reaps his deserved reward, 
And wihle his purer spirit shines on high, 
We treasure up his worth, and in his God rely. 



14 BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 33 



EPITHALAMIUM, (A Nuptial Feast.) 



Written at the age of VJ years. 

'Twa.s a bright happy day, but as bright were the 

scenes 
That enlivened its gay passing hours. 
For brighter the hopes on which innocence beams 
Than the sunshine today, with tomorrow's dark 

showers, 

(Chill blasts may sweep o'er them, and seem for 

awhile 
To have cast them on Death's frozen shore, 
But quickly they brighten and sweeter they smile 
When the breath of the blast is gone o'er.) 

'Tis enough; 'twill awake happy thoughts in the 

mind 
Of the noble and guiltless and pure 
That hands were united in Hymen's soft bands 
And love in soft ties was secure. 

Like two beautiful s.: reams as they roll on the way 

And ripple and dance in the sun, 

Till meeting and mingling in magic display 

To the fathomless Ocean they run. 

So thus, may bright streams of affection and love 
From fountains of purity run, 
So thus, in smooth channels as peacefully move 
Till commingled together in one. 

Then fairer the green banks, sweeter the flowers 
That lave their bright cups on its breast, 
And swiftly it passes the evergreen bowers 
That on its bright shores are at rest. 

Then, gathering beauty and strength as it flows 
To the fathomless "Ocean of Rest," 
It gently rolls on, till it rests on the shores 
That* repose on the land of the Blest. 

1 wished those fond beings that ever as sure 
The bright Sun of Hope might arise, 
That sorrows and shadows might never obscure 
The light of that sun from their eyes. 

T wished them contentment, and pleasure and joy, 
And (if ever a wish was sincere), 
It was that their pleasures might find no alloy 
With the false ones that flatter us here. 



jd il BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 



FRIENDSHIP. 



Written at the age of 18 years. 

Oh, friendship; sacred plant, transplanted from 

The rich nursery of Heaven, to earth's 

Cold, barren, soil. Retaining still from thence 

Its beautiful and tender foliage, 

Lively hues, and rich and luscious fragrance. 

And this for what? To Wither, fade and die? 

And thus on all the rest, throw out a rank 

And putrid odor, and ta.nt them deeper 

With pollution, even now too deep? No; 

Not thus to prove a curse, a bitter thing; 

But, ah, a gift from God, a plant from Heaven; 

Here even here, to thrive and stretch high o'er 

The rest, its leafy boughs, and serve a kind 

Protector — a beacon bright, to ward them 

'Gainst approaching ill. Yet more — to twine its 

Clasping tendrils 'round our hearts, and draw us 

Nearer, closer, firmer to each other — 

An emblem thus, of the pure love, that fills 

The angelic hosts of heaven. 

Oh friendship — hallowed name; we crave thy 

Signet on our fervent hearts and ever 

Mean to bear about thy lovely image. 

We mean to be that "few on earth" who dare 

To claim thee. Oh, may thou ever thrive — Yes, 

Ever find congenial soil in our fond 

Hearts. There, pruned and cultivated, may thou never 

Cease to thrive, 1 11 Death shall call us hence. And 

May thou ever when we've bid adieu to 

Earth, find other hands to rear thee, till the 

Last trump shall sound to an unnumbered throng. 

The knell of time departed. May then the 

Angel of the Lord transplant thee, in thy 

Native clime— thy happy paradise — where 

^he hosts of Heaven, will ever love to 

Cherish and adore thee. There may thou bloom 

Through never-ending ages and a long 

A long Eternity. 



"Friendship of all ties most binds the heart. 
And faith in friendship is the noblest part." 



«• BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 37 



"ONE STEP MORE." 

Q 

What though before me it is dark, 

Too dark for me to see, 
I ask but light enough for one step more, 

'Tis quite enough for me. 

Each little humble step I take, 
The gloom clears from the next, 

So though 'tis very dark beyond, 
I never am perplexed. 

And if sometimes the mist hangs close, 

So close, I fear to stray, 
Patient I wait a little while 

And soon it clears away. 

I would not see my further path 

For mercy veils it. so, 
My present steps might harder be, 

Did I the future know. 

It may be that my path is rough, 

Thorny and hard, and steep; 
And knowing this my strength might fail 

Through fear and terror deep. 

It may be that it winds along 

A smooth and flowing way, 
But seeing this I might despise 

The journey of today. 

Perhaps my path is very short, 

My journey nearly done; 
And I might tremble at the thought 

Of ending it so soon. 

Or if I saw a weary length 

Of road that I must wend, 
Fainting I'd think my feeble powers 

Will fail me ere the end. 

And so I do not wish to know 

My journey or its length, 
Assured that through my Father's love, 

Each step will bring its strength. 



38 " BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS^ 



Thus, step by step I onward go, 

Not looking far before, 
Trusting that I shall always have 

Just light enough for "One step more." 



I THINK OF FRIENDS WITH ME AND FRIENDS 
FAR AWAY. 



Written at the age of IS years. 

When the cares of the day absorbingly seem 
To envelope my mind in a dark hazy dream, 
When I carelessly seem every friend to forget, 
And no one scarce dreams, I a thought can beget, 
When youthful emotions of joy and delight 
Seem to render me buoyant, and cheerful and light. 
Whether cheerful or gloomy, or silent or gay, 
I think of friends with me and friends far away. 

When the soft breath of morning, embalmed with the 

dew 
Invigorates ajl nature, all nature anew, 
When I at my window, am seated the while, 
Ere the Sun's beaming graces, have drawn forth a 

smile, 
Enjoying the "thinking, and feeling and loving," 
Which the fond/ heart enjoys in this hour of the 

morning, 
Oh, then, when thoughts travel with lightning's swift 

ray, 
I think of friends with me and friends far away. 

When the Sun, low-descending, throws brightly be- 
hind, 
A ray to enliven and cheer the lone mind, 
When solitude's silence and charms I possess, 
And soft winds breath lightly and wild flowers ca- 
ress, 
When too their soft breathings I feel on my cheek, 
And I, welcoming meet them, in some calm retreat. 
Oh then, when thoughts travel with lightning's swift 

ray, 
I think of friends with me and friends far away. 



"BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS:' 39 



PRAYER. 



Written ai the aye of ID years. 

Go when the morning shineth, 

Go when the moon is bright, 
Go when the eve declmeth, 

Go in the hush of night; 
Go with pure mind and feeling, 

Fling earthly thoughts away, 
And in thy chamber kneeling, 

Do thou in secret, pray. 

Remember all who love thee; 

And all who are loved by thee; 
Omit all who are loved by thee; 

If any such there be; 
Then for thyself in meekness, 

A blessing humbly claim, 
And link with each petition 

Thy great Redeemer's name. 

Or if 'tis e'er denied thee 

In solitude to pray; 
Should holy thoughts come o'er thee, 

When friends are round thy way, 
E'en the silent breathing 

Of thy spirit raised above, 
Will reach His throne of glory, 

Who is Mercy, Truth and Love. 

Oh. not a joy or blessing 

With this can we compare, 
The power that He hath given us, 

To pour our souls in prayer; 
Whene'er thou pinest in sadness, 

Before his footstool fall, 
And remember in thy gladness, 

His grace who gave thee all. 



"Count that day lost whose low descending sun, 
views from thy hand no worthy action done." 



40 '« BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS: 



TO MARY, (My Sister.) 







Mary, it is a lovely name, 
Thrice hallowed in the rolls of fame, 
Not for the blazonry of mirth, 
Nor honors springing from the earth; 
But what Evangelists have told, 
Of three who bore that name of old; 
Mary, the Mother of our Lord, 
Mary, who sat to hear His word, 
And Mary Magdeline to whom 
He came, while weeping o'er his tomb, 
These to that humble name apply 
A glory which can never die. 
Mary, my prayer for you shall be, 
May you in pious love b» all the three. 




1 1 



)D£C W KW* 



